Easy Microwave Caramels

User Reviews

4.9

168 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    10 mins

  • Cook Time

    6 mins

  • Total Time

    16 mins

  • Servings

    36 caramels

  • Calories

    60 kcal

  • Course

    Dessert

  • Cuisine

    American

Easy Microwave Caramels

This recipe creates soft yet chewy caramels using a simple microwaving method. The combination of butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, salt, and sweetened condensed milk cooked in short bursts produces a classic caramel texture with a rich sugary flavor. Optional toppings like salt or chocolate add flexibility for finishing the candies. The microwave technique cuts down on traditional stove-top cooking time and careful stirring ensures an even caramelization.

Description

Easy Microwave Caramels are a straightforward way to make chewy caramel candies using your microwave. The butter and sugars melt and combine with sweetened condensed milk in a large microwave-safe bowl to allow for bubbling during cooking. The mixture is heated on high for about 6 to 7 minutes, stirred frequently to prevent burning and encourage even cooking. Once cooled and set in a buttered dish, the caramel cuts into neat squares. A drizzle of chocolate and a sprinkle of salt can be added for a flavorful contrast. This cooking method simplifies the traditionally slow caramel-making process while still achieving a satisfying soft chew.

The final caramel texture balances firmness and chewiness, making it enjoyable to bite into but not hard. The corn syrup helps prevent crystallization, keeping the candy smooth, while the sweetened condensed milk adds creaminess and depth of flavor. This recipe is helpful when you want homemade caramel without extensive equipment or constant stirring at the stove.

These caramels can be served as a sweet treat on their own or incorporated into desserts that call for caramel bits. Adding salt or chocolate enhances their richness and complexity depending on your preference.

Be sure to use a large microwave-safe bowl with plenty of space since the mixture will bubble and rise during cooking. Stirring every 90 seconds keeps the heat distributed evenly and prevents burning. Letting the caramel cool completely before cutting helps ensure clean pieces without melting or sticking.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • ¼ cup butter unsalted
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup corn syrup (Karo Syrup)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup sweetened condensed milk

Optional Toppings

  • salt
  • chocolate

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients in a large microwave safe bowl (the mixture will bubble up so make sure there is lots of room in the bowl).
  2. Microwave on high for 6-7 minutes, stirring every 90 seconds.
  3. Pour into a small buttered dish and allow to cool completely. Cut into small squares.
  4. If desired, drizzle with chocolate and a sprinkle of sea salt.

Note: This mixture gets VERY hot. Ensure there are no children underfoot when you make this.

Notes

  • Use a large microwave-safe bowl to allow for bubbling during cooking and prevent overflow.
  • Stir the mixture every 90 seconds to avoid burning and ensure even cooking.
  • Allow the caramel to cool fully in the buttered dish for clean cutting into squares.
  • Optional toppings like sea salt or melted chocolate can be added for extra flavor contrast.
  • Cooking time may vary depending on microwave wattage; monitor the caramel closely for doneness.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 60 (3%) Carbohydrates 11g (4%) Fat 1g (2%) Saturated Fat 1g (5%) Cholesterol 4mg (1%) Sodium 25mg (1%) Potassium 19mg (0%) Sugar 11g (22%) Vitamin A 50IU (1%) Vitamin C 0.1mg (0%) Calcium 16mg (2%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 36caramels

Amount Per Serving

Calories 60 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 60 3%
Carbohydrates 11g 4%
Fat 1g 2%
Saturated Fat 1g 5%
Cholesterol 4mg 1%
Sodium 25mg 1%
Potassium 19mg 0%
Sugar 11g 22%
Vitamin A 50IU 1%
Vitamin C 0.1mg 0%
Calcium 16mg 2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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User Reviews

Overall Rating

4.9

168 reviews
Excellent

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